Three synthetic approaches towards 2,3-substituted anthracenes are rep
orted and discussed in terms of selectivity and viability. This allowe
d us to introduce a variety of substituents as sidearms. Promising res
ults have been found using a tandem Diels-Alder aromatization reaction
using 2,3-dimethoxybutadiene 9 as a key intermediate. However, for mu
ltigram preparations the Friedel-Crafts approach is preferred. (C) 199
7 Elsevier Science Ltd.